LUNG FUNCTION IMPAIRMENT IN POST-TUBERCULOSIS PATIENTS

Abstract

Post-tuberculosis lung disease (PTLD) has emerged as a significant contributor to chronic respiratory morbidity among individuals who have successfully completed anti-tuberculosis therapy. Despite microbiological cure, many patients continue to experience persistent structural and functional pulmonary impairments, which adversely affects their quality of life and functional capacity. This study was conducted to determine the prevalence, spirometeric patterns, and predictors of lung function impairment in post-tuberculosis patients, and to evaluate its association with functional exercise capacity. A cross-sectional analytical study was carried out in the Department of Pulmonology Jinnah Post Graduate Medical Centre, Karachi, a tertiary care hospital, including 200 patients aged 20–55 years who had completed standard anti-tuberculosis treatment. Data was collected using a structured proforma, and pulmonary function was assessed through spirometry following standardized guidelines. Functional capacity was evaluated using the six- minute walk test (6MWT), along with measurement of oxygen saturation before and after six-minute walk test. The findings revealed that a substantial proportion of patients exhibited abnormal spirometry patterns, with obstructive defects being the most common, followed by mixed and restrictive patterns. Patients with impaired lung function demonstrated significantly reduced six- minute walk distance and greater exercise-induced oxygen desaturation compared to those with normal spirometry.